Our goal is to give you the most up-to-date, accurate information about your state DMV's processes. The date you see here reflects the most recent time we've verified this information with your state DMV. When they change something, we do, too!

Keep reading for important details about license plates and tags in South Carolina.

Types of SC License Plates

The South Carolina
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues license plates for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles.

You must display a license plate on the back of your vehicle with
month and year decals showing when your tag expires.

South Carolina's standard license plate features the state's palmetto symbol; however, there are
other design options available with different backgrounds and personalization. Learn more about these license plates on our Special Plate Types page. For complete application details, see our Special Plates Application page.

The SC DMV also issues disabled parking plates to those who are eligible. Learn more about requirements and applications on our
Disability Placards and Plates page.

Temporary License Plates

Temporary tags are valid for
45 days and allow you to drive while waiting for your SC license plate to arrive.

While using these tags,
keep proof of ownership in your vehicle, such as:

Replace Missing or Damaged Tags

If your car's license plate is stolen, lost or damaged, you can order a replacement online at the
SC DMV website. If your plate is unreadable you must return the license plate to the DMV and apply to replace it within 10 days. If your plate is stolen you must also apply for a new license plate within 10 days.

You will need:

Your license plate to be in good standing with the SCDMV.

Your vehicle registration certificate.

A VISA, MasterCard, or Discover card for payment.

Be sure your mailing address is correct, as your replacements will be sent to the address on file with the South Carolina DMV.

For fees, alternative ways to order replacements, or other questions,
contact the SC DMV:

By phone at (803) 896-5000.OR

By e-mail to help@scdmvonline.com.

NOTE: You may want to report lost or stolen plates to the police to prevent fraudulent use, but a police report is not required to order replacements.

Transfer & Surrender Tags

You can
transfer SC license plates from your old vehicle to a new one you own when you register it. The transfer fee is $10 PLUS taxes and title fees.